Chemical Composition: ICP-MS/AAA data from sample, Mixed Copper Alloy:
Cu, 68.93; Sn, 5.93; Pb, 20.76; Zn, 3.22; Fe, 0.24; Ni, 0.07; Ag, 0.09; Sb, 0.28; As, 0.46; Bi, less than 0.025; Co, 0.024; Au, less than 0.01; Cd, less than 0.001
J. Riederer
Technical Observations: The patina of the lamps is green. 149.1972.A and 149.1972.B also have spots that are brighter green.
The lamps appear to be cast. The circular shapes of the central components of 1961.37, 149.1972.A, and 149.1972.B are fairly precise, and it is likely that the models used to make these casts were turned. The only clear evidence for this, however, is the circular incised lines and, on 1961.37, what appear to be the sharp ridges of throw marks. 1961.37 has a center punch mark (2 mm) on its interior and exterior surfaces, which could derive from either the finishing of the model or the cast lamp. The spouts, handles, and nodular feet of 149.1972.A and 149.1972.B could have been added to the turned models or to the wax casts made from them. No evidence of wax joins is visible, however.
Although the lid of 149.1972.A and 149.1972.B is a reasonable fit and color match with its associated but unattached lamp, the pin that held it in place is fused in position by corrosion products, and the hole in the lid flange is intact. This raises the question of whether the two belonged together originally, although it is possible that they were separated just prior to burial and that subsequent corrosion fused the pin in place with the lid buried nearby.
149.1972.A and 149.1972.B have what appears to be oil residue embedded in the accretions and corrosion products in the interior.
Henry Lie (submitted 2001)
